The Wayne State University School of Social Work has been named a top 50 School for Social Work in 2023 according to U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate School ranking. The School has risen to its highest placement in the last decade, tying for #36.

Nestled in the heard of Detroit, the School provides over 900 BSW, MSW, PhD and Certificate students with ample opportunities to develop as social work practitioners, partner with faculty on research, and foster community engagement focused on urban communities. Dedicated faculty and staff work hand-in-hand with community members and partner organizations to develop nearly $20 million in funded research, and initiatives that benefit the profession and empower social change in the community. In 2022, the School revamped the Master of Social Work Program to provide students with specialized focal areas to enhance their ability to with diverse populations and practice areas.  

The Social Work Warrior Community has come together over the past year to support one another and fellow Detroiters while continuing to advance our vision. Through the creation of new student supports, outreach activities, and resources, the School has risen to the challenge of meeting the ever-changing needs of our students and community. “Rising from our last ranking of #44 to #36 is a huge accomplishment and recognition of the academic and practice excellence we offer as Detroit’s Social Work School - I could not be prouder,” stated Professor and Dean of Social Work Sheryl Kubiak, PhD. “We will continue to live our mission to prepare a diverse student body for social work practice that promotes social justice, particularly in urban environments. I am grateful to our faculty and staff who have proven they will rise to any challenge and create an organization that is an asset to all.”

The U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate Schools for Social Work score reflects its average rating based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Only fully accredited programs in good standing during the survey period are ranked, which totaled 296 schools for the 2023 rankings. Schools with the highest average scores appear in the rankings sorted in descending order based on their average peer assessment score.